When the weather gets colder, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup to warm you up and fill you with comfort. One of the all-time favorites that has earned its place in kitchens around the world is 15 Bean Soup. This rustic, flavorful soup combines a medley of beans, vegetables, and savory seasonings, creating a perfect meal for the soul. What makes this dish so incredible is how simple yet satisfying it is-packed with protein, fiber, and a range of delicious flavors.
This recipe, made right on the stove, allows you to take your time and let the flavors develop into a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a meal prep idea, this soup can serve as the perfect base to get creative with. It’s versatile, filling, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing!
15 Bean Soup Stove Recipe
This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, without sacrificing any of the deep flavors that make 15 Bean Soup such a hit. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients Needed
To create the full experience of this soup, you’ll need:
- 1 package of 15-bean mix (usually available in dried form at most grocery stores; some popular brands are Hurst’s or Bob’s Red Mill)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon, but adjust at the end)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ham hock or 2 smoked ham bones (for that rich, smoky flavor; optional but recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but it really enhances the flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar adds brightness at the end)
Cooking Instructions
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Soak The Beans
- Start by rinsing the beans in a colander, then soak them overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water. This helps them cook faster and ensures they are tender. If you’re short on time, you can do a quick soak: bring the beans and water to a boil for 2 minutes, then turn off the heat and let them sit for 1 hour. Drain the beans after soaking.
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Prepare The Vegetables
- In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
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Add The Garlic And Seasonings
- Toss in the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika (if using), and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes aromatic.
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Add The Beans And Liquids
- Stir in the soaked beans, followed by the diced tomatoes (with their juices), the bay leaf, and the ham hock or smoked ham bones (if using). Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water, giving everything a good stir to combine.
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Simmer The Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beans should become tender and the broth should thicken slightly as the flavors meld together.
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Final Touches
- After the soup has cooked, remove the ham hock or bones and discard them. Use a spoon or fork to shred any remaining meat off the bones, then return the meat to the soup.
- Add salt to taste, and stir in a tablespoon of vinegar to brighten the flavors. If the soup feels too thick, you can add more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. It pairs perfectly with some crusty bread or cornbread to soak up all that rich, flavorful broth.
Ingredient Insights
The beauty of 15 Bean Soup lies in the diversity of its ingredients. Each one adds something unique:
- The 15 Bean Mix: While it may seem like just a bag of dried beans, this mix offers a fantastic variety of textures and flavors. You’ll find different types of beans like kidney, pinto, black-eyed peas, and navy beans, all contributing to the heartiness and nutrition of the soup.
- Ham or Smoked Bones: These add that undeniable depth of flavor that makes this soup so cozy. The smoky richness from ham hocks or bones infuses the broth, creating a savory base that balances the beans’ earthiness.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery (the holy trinity of soup-making) bring both flavor and nutrients to the mix. Together, they provide a slight sweetness and aromatic base that sets the stage for all the other ingredients.
- Herbs and Spices: Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf are classic seasonings in bean soups. They add a herby richness that complements the beans perfectly. Smoked paprika, though optional, brings a smoky undertone that elevates the soup to another level.
- Vinegar: A surprising addition, but one that balances out the heaviness of the beans. Just a splash of vinegar at the end brightens up the flavor and adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip the Soaking: Soaking your beans ensures they cook more evenly and reduces the chance of them being undercooked or too tough. Even if you’re using a quick soak method, it’s worth the extra time to let them soften.
- Low and Slow is Key: The longer you simmer the soup, the better it will taste. Allowing the flavors to meld slowly will make the soup even more delicious.
- Be Mindful of Salt: Since the ham bones or ham hock can already add a lot of salt, taste the soup at the end before adding extra. If you’re watching your sodium intake, try using a low-sodium broth and reducing the amount of added salt.
- Flavor Layering: You can always experiment with adding a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), or a squeeze of lemon to bring fresh notes to the finished soup.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of 15 Bean Soup is its versatility. You can play around with the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian or Vegan Version: Omit the ham or smoked bones and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still add some smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
- Add Greens: Spinach or kale are great additions. Just stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Meat Lovers’ Soup: If you want to take it a step further, you can add some cooked sausage, bacon, or even pulled pork to the soup for more depth and richness.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, marjoram, or basil to change the flavor profile. You can also add a touch of lemon zest for a citrusy zing.
Final Words
15 Bean Soup is a classic recipe that offers comfort in every bite. It’s a blend of simplicity and depth, making it the perfect dish for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish to accompany a main course, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.